14 Recipes For Using Green Tomatoes l The Flexitarian

Don’t let green tomatoes go to waste! Try to ripen them indoors or turn them into delicious dishes.

If you are growing your own tomatoes then this is the time of the year where you might find yourself with an abundance of green tomatoes that have little chance to ripen on their own outside.

A common misconception is that sunlight is essential for tomatoes to ripen. In fact, they rely on warmth and ethylene gas. You can try to ripen green tomatoes indoors by keeping them (ideally on the vine) in brown paper bags (or newspapers) between 18-25°C. Tomatoes do naturally emit ethylene gas but you can help the ripening process along by placing a banana or apple in the bag with them.

Some might never ripen though, but the good news is that from fried green tomatoes, green tomato soups, or green tomato pies they are countless ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient.

Mains & Sides

Green tomatoes are often overlooked but they can bring a delicious twist to classic dishes such as tomato pie, tomato salad, or sandwiches. Here is a handful of green tomato mains and sides to try out.

Savory Green Tomato Pie l Little Black Skillet

If you’re a fan of fried green tomatoes, then you’re going to love this tart and tangy savoury tomato pie, perfect to serve as a main dish, side, or appetiser.

Green Shakshuka l The Forked Spoon

For a twist in the classic North African and Middle Eastern breakfast dish, try this green shakshuka filled with veggies and lentils.

Crunchy Green Tomato Salad with Herbs l Redwood Kitchen

Turn you garden green tomatoes into a zesty salad! A delicious way to savour the end of summer.

Goat Cheese Toast Recipe l Turning The Clock Back

Green Tomato Toast Recipe with Goat Cheese l Turning The Clock Back

This yummy goat cheese toast is topped with plump green tomatoes, plenty of fresh herbs, and slivered red onion.

Green Tomato Soups

Whether you are looking for a creative way to use up your garden’s bounty or simply want to try something new, you can turn your green tomatoes into a comforting soup. A refreshing twist on traditional tomato soups.

Green Tomato Soup l The Flexitarian

Silky and smooth, this green tomato soup has a lovely creamy texture. Garam masala curry powder gives it a delicious taste.

Roasted Green Tomato Soup With Pesto l The Peasant’s Daughter

Served with a drizzle of homemade pesto, this roasted green tomato soup makes a warming end of summer meal.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Often associated with Southern US cuisine, fried green tomatoes “entered the American culinary scene in the Northeast and Midwest, perhaps with a link to Jewish immigrants“. Firmer than ripe tomatoes, green tomatoes are perfect for frying. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, they are the perfect mix of crunchy, tangy, and savoury.

Fried Green Cherry Tomatoes l Grits and Gouda

With their crunchy cornmeal and breadcrumbs coating, these Southern fried green tomatoes are the ideal bite-size, party appetisers. They can be deep-fried or baked in an air-fryer. They can be served with your favourite dipping sauce (like ranch, aioli, or chipotle mayo).